Eskmeals weapons testing and evaluation facility

This facility offers weapon and equipment proving trials over land at short-ranges (to 1.5km), and over the sea for long-ranges (to 49.0km) from 10 operational firing locations.

Characteristics of Facility

* Testing of large calibre ordnance and munitions (larger than 40mm) which comprises performance tests on gun barrels, firing vehicle, propellants, range and accuracy trials and strength of design.

* Testing of free flight rocket systems with inert/practice payloads and a ballistic safety trace.

* Static and dynamic trials into:
* Explosive effects on structures and armour.

* Demolition methods
* Operation of shaped charges comprising multi-warheads, fragmenting warhead tests, explosive reactive armour testing, mine clearance, defensive aids and pyrotechnics.

* Direct fire ranges against targets at a distance of up to 909 metres (1000 yards) comprising both function and accuracy firings
* An ammunition compound for explosive and inert storage.

* An ammunition conditioning capability between +70 degrees Celsius and 60 degrees Celsius.

* Proofing activities to ensure that munitions and weapons are manufactured correctly and are fit for purpose. The following are undertaken:
* Fuse proof.

* Propellant proof.

* Ordnance proof.

* Production proof.

* In-service and service proof/surveillance.